And the First Minister said that she would be chairing a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience committee.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the the SNP said: “All of our thoughts are with those affected by the dreadful events in London. Out of respect the SNP has suspended national campaigning this morning.

“Appropriate local campaigning will continue and our activities will be kept under review during the course of the day.

“Respect for those who have lost their lives must be our priority. However, it is also important – especially so close to an election – that the terrorists do not succeed in their attempts to undermine our democracy.”

Ms Sturgeon said: “Following the horrific terrorist attack in the centre of London last night, we are working closely with the UK Government and Police Scotland to monitor the situation.

“Later today I will chair a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience committee.

“My thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have tragically lost their lives and with everyone who has been harmed or affected by these terrible incidents.”

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In a statement, the Scottish Labour leader said: “My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families after the horrific terrorist attacks in London last night.

“Once again our nation finds itself under attack from those who hate our way of life and seek to change us. But we will not allow that to happen, because the values that they hate – democracy, the rule of law and tolerance – are what make our country so special. It’s why Britain is a beacon for other nations around the world. We will not let the terrorists win.

“We must also thank those in our emergency services who yet again put themselves in danger to protect others. Their bravery and commitment to our safety never fails to inspire.

“London is one of the greatest cities in the world, a place where people from every continent have made their home. One of the most multi-cultural cities on earth will continue to welcome people from different faiths, cultures, races and backgrounds. It will not be cowed. We all stand with the people of London today.”

I've cancelled a campaign photo opp and a national radio phone in – but local campaigning will and must continue

Staff at a packed pub locked the doors as the gang tried to smash their way in. One man was stabbed five times.

Assistant Commissioner of Met Police Mark Rowley confirmed that all three of the depraved attackers were shot and killed within eight minutes of the first call to emergency services.

A picture taken outside the Wheatsheaf pub in Borough Market shows the three terrorists lying dead – after being gunned down by cops.

One of the twisted attackers was pictured wearing an Arsenal football strip from the 2011/12 season.

Meanwhile a TV showdown between Nicola Sturgeon and Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron has been postponed in response to the London Bridge terror attack, the BBC has confirmed.

National campaigning was suspended by all major parties, except Ukip, in the wake of the atrocity, with the broadcaster announcing plans to shift its Question Time Leaders Special to Monday – just days before the June 8 election.

It is the second time that campaigning has been paused, as parties agreed to put electioneering efforts on hold for three days after the Manchester bombing on May 22.

A BBC spokeswoman said: “The Question Time Leaders Special with Nicola Sturgeon and Tim Farron planned for 5.55pm today will make way for a BBC news special on the London Bridge attack.

“We cannot yet confirm the new scheduling of Question Time, but it will be broadcast tomorrow.”

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